Advanced Composite Manufacturing Methods 2001-01-2601

To remain competitive in the advanced composites market, high quality, cost effective parts must be manufactured. Due to the nature that the fiber in an aerospace composite laminate must be collated to be efficient, a cost effective and high quality manufacturing process has been slow to develop. There have been advancements in manufacturing processes in recent years. In this paper, the development and application of manufacturing methods for advanced composites is described. State-of-the-art manufacturing methods such as advanced fiber placement, tape laying, resin infusion methods (resin transfer molding, vacuum assisted resin transfer molding, resin film infusion), filament winding, hand lay-up, and hybrid methods are discussed. Various processes are discussed in terms of materials lamination, consolidation, and curing. Existing and emerging technologies will be examined for potential applications. Advantages and disadvantages are listed. Issues such as cost, equipment, materials, tooling, part geometry, and maturity will also be discussed.